Most builders do pay for inspections, but can they truly be called "independent" and by whose standards are they working?  Today, even if the builder doesn't want to pay for the inspector of your choice, some Realtors are willing to pay for it.  Make sure you ask for this as part of the deal.

5 Costly Mistakes to Avoid

Here is a quick tip list of mistakes to avoid that you can print and may want to use during your home buying process:

1.- Buying a new home without representation.
2.- Trusting the builder's inspectors.
3.- Buying a home on the merits of decor alone.
4.- Rely on any verbal promises that are not incorporated into the terms of your contract.
5.- Leave cash at the closing table!

Avoiding these mistakes will get you many thousands of dollars you can use for add-ons.

Realtors receive 3-6% commission of the "base price" paid by the builder.  In many cases the builder pays even more in the form of bonuses to the selling agent. This allows Realtors to return a large portion of these commissions back to the buyer.  How much can you get? Buyers could expect from 1% to as much as 5% of the base price.  Taking advantage of a cash back program would prevent you from leaving thousands of dollars at the closing table.

What's Wrong With Buying Without Representation?

You could miss special incentives and upgrades if you show up by yourself.  You could spend hours resolving issues or disputes concerning the contract, the quality of construction, the closing process or the loan. Showing up without a Representative will not lower the price of your purchase, will not increase the amount of builder's upgrades or incentives and will not give you an edge on negotiating!  Using a licenced Realtor can save you time and could pay you money.

Questions or comments? http://stuartrealtor.com/contactus.asp